Hand powered hydraulic rescue strut

ABSTRACT

A manual rescue tool is disclosed. In one embodiment, the rescue tool has a hydraulic pump assembly having a hydraulic manifold block and an extension tube assembly extendable by the hydraulic pump assembly. The extension tube assembly may be mounted to and supported by the manifold block. The rescue tool may further include a first end tool operably connected to a first end of the extension tube assembly and an end plate assembly rotatably mounted to the manifold block.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a Continuation application of U.S. application Ser. No. 13/662,966, filed Oct. 29, 2012, which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 61/628,433 to Hisel, filed on Nov. 1, 2011, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND

Extendable rescue struts or tools are commonly used to secure and stabilize an overturned vehicle that has been in an accident by creating supporting points. Some rescue tools are extendable by an external power source, such as a motorized hydraulic pump. Other rescue tools are extendable through the operation of a manual mechanical jack, such as a screw jack or a ratcheting type farm jack. However, many rescue tools having mechanical jacks require a significant period of time to assembly and/or extend to their full lengths. As rescue operations can be extremely time sensitive, improvements are desired.

SUMMARY

A manual rescue tool is disclosed. In one embodiment, the rescue tool has a hydraulic pump assembly having a hydraulic manifold block and an extension tube assembly extendable by the hydraulic pump assembly. The extension tube assembly may be mounted to and supported by the manifold block. The rescue tool may further include a first end tool operably connected to a first end of the extension tube assembly and an end plate assembly rotatably mounted to the manifold block. In one aspect, the disclosed concepts combine the speed, power, control and dependability of hydraulics with lightweight structural components, such as those made from aluminum, to provide rescue professionals with a superior tool for vehicle stabilization.

The hydraulic pump assembly of the rescue tool may have a manual hydraulic pump and wherein the hydraulic manifold block is in fluid communication with the hydraulic pump. The pump assembly may further have a cylinder tube mounted to the hydraulic manifold block wherein the cylinder tube defines an interior volume that is in fluid communication with an outlet side of the manual hydraulic pump. The pump assembly may also have an oil reservoir tube mounted to the hydraulic manifold block. In one embodiment, the oil reservoir tube and the cylinder tube define an oil reservoir in fluid communication with an inlet side of the manual hydraulic pump. The pump assembly may also have a cylinder rod having a first end and a second end wherein the first end having a piston slidable within the cylinder tube.

The extension tube assembly maybe provided with an outer support tube removably mounted to the pump assembly hydraulic manifold block. The extension tube assembly may also include an inner support tube slidably received within the outer support tube and operably connected to the second end of the cylinder rod, such as by a push block. The extension tube assembly may also have an extension tube connected to the inner support tube and the first end tool wherein the extension tube being slidable within the inner support tube. The extension tube can also be adjustably connected to the inner support tube by a mounting pin.

DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Non-limiting and non-exhaustive embodiments are described with reference to the following figures, which are not necessarily drawn to scale, wherein like reference numerals refer to like parts throughout the various views unless otherwise specified.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a hand powered hydraulic rescue strut in a retracted position having features that are examples of aspects in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the rescue strut shown in FIG. 1 in an extended position.

FIG. 3 is a side view of the rescue strut of FIG. 1.

FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of the rescue strut of FIG. 1.

FIG. 5 is a close up exploded view of a portion of the rescue strut of FIG. 1, as indicated on FIG. 4 at location 5.

FIG. 6 is a top view of a hydraulic manifold shown as part of the rescue strut at FIG. 1.

FIG. 7 is a first side view of the hydraulic manifold shown in FIG. 6.

FIG. 8 is a bottom view of the hydraulic manifold shown in FIG. 6.

FIG. 9 is a second side view of the hydraulic manifold shown in FIG. 6.

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a pump body shown as part of the rescue strut at FIG. 1.

FIG. 11 is a side view of the pump body shown in FIG. 10.

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of an end cap shown as part of the rescue strut at FIG. 1.

FIG. 13 is a side cross-sectional view of the end cap shown in FIG. 12.

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a cylinder rod shown as part of the rescue strut at FIG. 1.

FIG. 15 is a side view of the cylinder rod shown in FIG. 14.

FIG. 16 is a side cross-sectional view of the cylinder rod shown in FIG. 14, taken along line 16-16 as indicated at FIG. 15.

FIG. 17 is perspective view of a cylinder tube shown as part of the rescue strut shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 18 is side view of the cylinder tube shown in FIG. 17.

FIG. 19 is a side cross-sectional view of the cylinder tube shown in FIG. 17, taken along line 19-19 as indicated at FIG. 18.

FIG. 20 is a side cross-sectional view of the cylinder tube shown in FIG. 19, with a shaft ring seal installed.

FIG. 21 is a side view of a push block shown as part of the rescue strut shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 22 is a cross-sectional view of the push block shown in FIG. 19, taken along line 20-20 as indicated at FIG. 21.

FIG. 23 is a top view of a pivot plate shown as part of the rescue strut shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 24 is a side view of the pivot plate shown in FIG. 23.

FIG. 25 is a perspective view of an end tool shown as part of the rescue strut shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 26 is a side view of the end tool shown in FIG. 25.

FIG. 27 is a top view of the end tool shown in FIG. 25.

FIG. 28 is a perspective view of a cylinder rod attachment tool.

FIG. 29 is a side view of the cylinder rod attachment tool shown in FIG. 28.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Various embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals represent like parts and assemblies throughout the several views. Reference to various embodiments does not limit the scope of the claims attached hereto. Additionally, any examples set forth in this specification are not intended to be limiting and merely set forth some of the many possible embodiments for the appended claims.

Referring now to FIGS. 1-5, an example hand powered hydraulic rescue strut 10 is shown. Rescue strut 10 is for temporarily securing and stabilizing a vehicle or structure. In the embodiment shown, rescue strut 10 has a hand powered hydraulic pump assembly 100 that selectively increases or decreases the length of an extension tube assembly 200. As the extension tube assembly 200 is lengthened or shortened, the distance between a pivot plate assembly 300 and a first end tool 400 is increased or decreased, respectively.

Hydraulic Pump Assembly

As shown, hand powered hydraulic pump assembly 100 includes a hand powered pump actuator 102 in fluid communication with a hydraulic manifold 120. Pump assembly 100 is also shown as having an oil reservoir tube 140 connected to the hydraulic manifold 120 and a cylinder tube 150 positioned within the oil reservoir tube 140. As shown, an end cap 170 is connected to the cylinder tube 150 and operates, in part, to secure the oil reservoir tube 140 to the hydraulic manifold 120. The pump assembly 100 also includes a cylinder rod 160 that is movable within the cylinder tube 110. One end of the cylinder rod 160 has a piston 164 while the other end is configured to engage a push block 210 attached to the extension tube assembly 200 such that the extension tube assembly 200 is extended when hydraulic fluid is exerted on the piston 164. Additional details of the pump assembly are explained in the following paragraphs.

The pump assembly 100 is shown as having a pump actuator assembly 102 that is received in a pump body 104. The pump body defines a number of hydraulic ports 104 a-104 e and internal passageways 1002-1008. As shown, the pump actuator assembly 102 has a manual actuator 102 c, an outlet port 102 a, and an inlet port 102 b. The manual actuator 102 c may be operated by a handle 108 received in a handle socket 106 that is connected to the manual actuator 102 c. Upon actuation of the manual actuator 102 c, hydraulic fluid is forced from the inlet port 102 b to the outlet port 102 a. To prevent hydraulic fluid from flowing backwards from the outlet port 102 a to the inlet port 102 b, an internal check valve (not shown) may be provided in the pump actuator 102.

As stated above, the pump body 104 includes a number of ports and passageways that allow for the pump actuator assembly 102 to provide pressurized hydraulic fluid to the hydraulic manifold 120. For example, the pump body has a pump port 104 a, an inlet port 104 b, and an outlet port 104 c. The pump actuator 102 is received at the pump port 104 a such that the outlet port 104 c is in fluid communication with the actuator outlet 102 a via a fluid passageway 1002 and such that the inlet port 104 b is in fluid communication with the actuator inlet 102 b via a fluid passageway 1004.

The pump assembly 100 may also be provided with a relief valve 110. As shown, the relief valve 110 is received in the pump body 104 at a port 104 d. As configured, the relief valve 110 operates, when opened, to provide a flow path via flow paths 1004, 1006, 1008 in pump body 104 around the pump actuator 102 c so that hydraulic fluid can flow backwards from the outlet port 104 c to the inlet port 104 b. Accordingly, the relief valve 110, when opened, allows the pump assembly 100, and thereby the extension tube assembly 200, to contract back to its shortest possible length. When the relief valve 110 is closed, hydraulic fluid is not allowed to bypass the actuator 102 c (and its internal check valve) via flow paths 1006 and 1008.

The pump assembly 100 may also be provided with a check valve 112. Where pump actuator 102 is provided with an internal check valve, valve 112 may provide a redundancy function. As configured, check valve 112 is received in a port 104 e of the pump body 104 and allows fluid to flow in a direction from port 104 a to port 104 c, but prevents fluid flow in a direction from port 104 c towards 104 a via passageway 1002.

The pump assembly 100 may also be provided with a number of mounting holes 114 for mounting the pump body 104 to a hydraulic manifold block 122 of the hydraulic manifold 120. Although three mounting holes 114 are shown, more or fewer may be provided, or another form of suitable attachment known in the art may be provided. As configured, the mounting holes 114 align with corresponding mounting holes 136 on the manifold block 122. The mounting holes 136 may be threaded to receive fasteners 118, which are shown as machine screws.

It is also noted that inlet port 104 b and outlet port 104 c are provided with a recess such that each port 104 b, 104 c, can receive a seal member 116. As shown, seal members 116 are O-ring type seals. The seal members 116 are also received in corresponding recesses in the manifold block 122 at a first port 122 a and second port 122 b such that a fluid-tight seal is formed between ports 104 b and 122 a and between 104 c and 122 b.

As shown, the hydraulic manifold 120 has a manifold block 122 having a first end portion 124 and a second end portion 126. The hydraulic manifold 120 distributes hydraulic fluid between the pump actuator 102 and the piston 164 on the cylinder rod 162, and also directs hydraulic fluid between the pump actuator 102 and a hydraulic fluid reservoir 138. The hydraulic fluid reservoir 138 is defined by an end face 124 a of the manifold block, a space defined between the oil reservoir tube 140 and the cylinder tube 150, and the end cap 170. Manifold block 122 also serves as a structural component of the rescue strut 10. In the embodiment shown, manifold block 122 is machined from an aluminum block. However, other materials and manufacturing processes may be used.

As shown, manifold block 122 has a first port 122 a in fluid communication with the inlet port 104 b of the pump actuator 102 and has a second port 122 b in fluid communication with the outlet port 104 c. The first port 122 a provides for fluid communication between the inlet port 104 b on the pump body 104 and the oil reservoir 138. This fluid communication is provided by a passageway 1010 and an opening 122 c in the end face 124 e of the manifold block 122. It is noted that opening 122 c is located at the bottom-most portion of the oil reservoir 138 and therefore allows fluid from the oil reservoir 138 to be provided to the pump actuator 102 through a wide range of orientations of the manifold block 122. For example, the bottom 122 g of the manifold block 122 could be rotated anywhere between horizontal with the ground (zero degrees) to about 120 degrees while still allowing for the pump actuator 102 to remain operable. As such, the hydraulic pump assembly 100 is operable when the rescue strut 10 is in either a horizontal or a vertical position, and positions there between.

The second port 122 b provides for fluid communication between the outlet port 104 c on the pump body 104 and the interior volume 150 c of the cylinder tube 150 via a passageway 1012 and an outlet opening 122 d. The manifold block includes additional ports 122 e, 122 f in fluid communication with ports 122 a, 122 b via passageways 1014, 1016, respectively. Ports 122 e, 122 f allow for the manifold block 122 to be connected to and operated by an external pressure source, such as another manual pump or a compressed air powered pump. Plugs 128 may be provided to block ports 122 e, 122 f when not in use.

The manifold block 122, at the first end portion 124, is configured to receive both the oil reservoir tube 140 and the cylinder tube 150. As shown, the cylinder tube 150 is threaded onto a threaded portion 124 c of the manifold block 122 via threads 152 at a first end 150 a of the cylinder tube 150. As shown, threads 152 and 124 c are tapered NPT threads. The configuration of the cylinder tube 150 allows the interior volume 150 c of the cylinder tube 150 to be placed in fluid communication with the opening 122 d of the manifold block 122 such that hydraulic fluid can enter the cylinder tube 150.

The oil reservoir tube 140 is placed over the cylinder tube 150 such that a first end 140 a of the oil reservoir tube 140 abuts a shoulder 124 f on the manifold block 122. A seal is formed between the manifold block first end 124 and the oil reservoir tube 140 via a seal member 132 retained in a groove 124 b. As shown, seal member 132 is an O-ring seal. The oil reservoir tube 140 is secured to the manifold block 122 by the end cap 170 which threads onto threads 156 at a second end 150 b of the cylinder tube 150 and exerts a compressive force against a second end 140 b of the oil reservoir tube 140 with a shoulder 180. A seal is formed between the end cap 170 and the oil reservoir tube by a seal member 176 a located in a groove 176 of the end cap. As shown, the seal member 176 a is an O-ring type seal. With the end cap 170 in place, the oil reservoir 138 is formed within the interior volume 140 c of the oil reservoir tube and outside of the cylinder tube 150 and between the end cap 170 and the manifold block 122. As stated previously, the oil reservoir 138 formed by the oil reservoir tube 140 and cylinder tube 150 is in fluid communication with opening 122 c to allow for fluid flow between the pump actuator 102 and the oil reservoir 138.

The first end portion 124 of the hydraulic manifold 120 is also provided with a threaded portion 122 h at the end of passageway 1012 for receiving a bottom out screw 130. Bottom out screw 130 is provided with porting 130 a such that hydraulic fluid can freely pass from passageway 1012 and into opening 122 d. The bottom out screw 130 functions to prevent the piston 164 of the cylinder rod assembly 160 from bottoming out in the opening 122 d which could cause excessive forces that would damage the manifold block 122.

The first end portion 124 of the hydraulic manifold 120 is also shown as having a shoulder 124 a for abutting a first end 202 a of an outer support tube 202 of the extension tube assembly. The outer support tube 202 may be secured to the first end portion 124 by a connector 226, such as a quick release fastener, that passes through a mounting hole 202 e of the outer support tube 202 and a mounting hole 124 d of the hydraulic manifold 122.

The second end portion 126 of the hydraulic manifold 120 is configured for attachment to the end plate assembly 300. As shown, the second end portion 126 is provided with a through hole 126 a for receiving a mounting pin 304 that is also received by the end plate assembly 300 (discussed later). As shown, the mounting pin 304 is secured with a nut 306. A clevis or hitch pin with a tethered or untethered retaining pin can also be used to aid in quick disassembly. The through hole 126 a and mounting pin 304 allow for the pump assembly 100 to be rotatably mounted with respect to the end plate assembly 300. The second end portion 126 is also provided with a recessed portion 126 b that allows for the pump assembly 100 to engage with a surface when the end plate assembly 300 is not installed. For example, the pump assembly 100 could be positioned generally horizontally in a dash-roll type operation wherein the recessed anchor portion 126 is engaged with a frame portion of a vehicle doorway or a rocker panel support channel that is designed for engagement with the anchor portion 126 and a portion of a vehicle or other structure.

As shown, the piston 114 is disposed within the cylinder tube 110. As pump actuator 102 is operated to force hydraulic fluid into the cylinder tube 110, the piston 114 is driven away from the manifold 106 and towards the extension tube assembly 200. Conversely, when oil is drained from the cylinder tube 110, the piston 114 falls towards the manifold 106. As the cylinder rod 116 is connected to piston 114, the cylinder rod 116 likewise follows the motion of the piston 114.

With reference to FIGS. 17-20, the cylinder tube 150 is shown in greater detail. In addition to the above described features, the cylinder tube 150 can also be provided with a fluid bypass feature 154 to protect the pump assembly 100 from over pressurization. The fluid bypass feature allows for hydraulic fluid to be passed from the interior volume 150 c of the cylinder tube into the oil reservoir when the piston 164 moves beyond the bypass feature 154 within the cylinder tube 150. When the piston 164 reaches this point, hydraulic fluid can no longer force the piston 164 further along in the cylinder tube 150 to extend the length of the extension tube assembly 200. As shown, the bypass feature 154 is defined by an external groove 154 a in the cylinder tube 150, a plurality of openings 154 b extending through the cylinder tube sidewall at the location of the groove 154 a, and an expandable shaft ring seal 154 c mounted within the groove 154 a. The ring seal 154 c is configured such that the openings 154 b are covered and sealed when the fluid pressure in the cylinder tube 150 is either negative or below a predefined level. Accordingly, the bypass feature 154 does not allow fluid to flow in the direction from the oil reservoir 138 into the cylinder tube 150 as negative fluid pressure would only act to close the ring seal 154 c further. As the fluid pressure in the cylinder tube 150 increases beyond the predefined level, which is generally only a nominal pressure, the ring seal 154 c is forced to expand. Once the ring seal 154 c is in an expanded state, hydraulic fluid can then flow from the inside of the cylinder tube 150 and into the reservoir 138 via openings 154 b.

With reference to FIGS. 12 and 13, the end cap 170 is shown in greater detail. The end cap 170 has a first end 170 a and a second end 170 b, and defines an internal volume 170 c. End cap 170 may also be provided with a recess 172 configured to accept and retain a shaft wiper 174. Shaft wiper 174 is configured to tightly surround the cylinder rod 160 and to clear any debris that may be present on cylinder rod 160 as the rod 160 is retracted through the end cap 170 and into the cylinder tube 150.

Referring to FIGS. 14 to 16, the cylinder rod assembly 160 is shown in greater detail. As shown, the cylinder rod assembly 160 has a cylinder rod 162 and a piston 164. The cylinder rod 162 has a first end 162 a and a second end 162 b. The first end 162 a is configured to engage with the piston 162 while the second end 162 b, shown as being tapered, is configured for engagement with an attachment tool 500 or a push block 210 of the extension tube assembly 210. As can be seen at FIG. 16, the first end 162 a of the cylinder rod 162 has a reduced diameter such that it can be internally received by the piston 162. The piston 162 has a face 164 a, against which hydraulic fluid exerts a force during pumping, and a pair of seal supports 164 b. The seal supports 164 b retain seal members 164 c, which may be O-ring type seals. The seal members 164 c ensure a fluid tight seal between the piston 162 and the internal wall of the cylinder tube 150 such that hydraulic fluid entering the cylinder tube 150 exerts a pressure force against the face of the piston 162 without leaking past the piston 162. As fluid enters the cylinder tube 150, the piston 164 slides along the cylinder tube 150 until the pumping action of the pump actuator 102 is stopped, or until the piston 162 reaches beyond the bypass feature 154 of the cylinder tube 150. Accordingly, the cylinder rod 162 extends through the end cap 170 as the piston 162 extends towards the end cap to extend the extension tube assembly 200. As shown, the cylinder rod 162 is chrome plated steel and welded to the piston 164. Other materials and attachment means may be used.

As described above, the completed pump assembly 100 can be easily configured in the field to be utilized as a stand-alone device, or in conjunction with the extension tube assembly 200. As shown, the pump assembly 100 is configured to have an extension travel length a maximum length L1 of about 48 inches and a minimum length L2 of about 32 inches resulting in an effective travel length of about 16 inches, as defined by the difference between length L2 and length L1. However, it is to be understood that the pump assembly 100 could be configured to have different minimum, maximum, and travel lengths, by modifying the lengths of the oil reservoir tube 140, the cylinder tube 150, and the cylinder rod 160.

Extension Tube Assembly

Referring back to FIGS. 1-4, the extension tube assembly 200 is shown in greater detail. The extension tube assembly 200 is configured to extend and retract through operation of the hydraulic pump assembly 100. As shown, the extension tube assembly 200 includes an outer support tube 202, an inner support tube 204 disposed within the outer support tube 202, and an extension tube 206 disposed within the inner support tube 204. In the embodiment shown, the tubes 202, 204, 206 are formed from aluminum tubing. However, other materials may be used.

In the embodiment shown, the outer support tube has a first end 202 a, a second end 202 b, and defines an interior volume 202 c. As discussed previously, the first end 202 a of the outer support is connected to the hydraulic manifold block 122 by a connector 226 and mounting hole 202 e. The second end 202 b of the outer support tube 202 is provided with a recess 202 d for receiving and retaining a guide bushing 214. In the embodiment shown, the guide bushing 214 is formed from a plastic material and secured to the outer support tube 202 by an adhesive, such as an epoxy. However, other materials and methods of attachment may be used. The guide bushing 214, allows for the inner support tube 204 to easily slide into and out of the second end 202 b of the outer support tube 202 by providing a low friction interface against the inner support tube 204. As shown, the guide bushing 214 is provided with a lip 214 c to additionally secure the bushing 214 to the outer support tube 202 and to prevent the bushing 214 from being inserted too far into the interior volume 202 c.

As shown, the inner support tube 204, is provided with a first end 204 a, a second end 204 b, and defines an interior volume 204 c while the extension tube 206 is also provided with a first end 206 a, a second end 206 b, and an interior volume 206 c. As shown, the extension tube 206 is at least partially received within the interior volume 204 c of the inner support tube 204.

At the second end 204 b of the inner support tube 204, securing holes 204 d may be provided to mechanically fix the extension tube 206 to the inner support tube 204 with a pin 226. In one embodiment, pin 226 is a quick release pin. The extension tube 206 is also provided with a plurality of radially and axially spaced adjustment holes 206 d such that the starting and ending length of the rescue strut 10 can be modified for any particular application. Because the pump assembly 100 has a fixed travel length (length L2 minus length L1), it may be desirable to extend the extension tube 206 with respect to the inner support tube 204 in applications where the starting height or length is relatively high. In the opposite circumstance where the rescue strut starting length needs to be relatively short, it would be more desirable to fix the extension tube 206 to the inner support tube 204 nearer to the second end 206 b. It is also noted that the rescue strut 10 can be used without the extension tube 206 provided that the inner support tube 204 is sufficiently long with respect to the outer support tube 202.

As configured, the rescue strut 10 is configured to have a maximum length L3 of about 105 inches and a minimum length L4 of about 72 inches, depending upon the travel length of the pump assembly (length L2 minus length L1) and the relative mounting position of the extension tube 206 to the inner support tube 204. Lengths L3 and L4 are also dependent upon the heights of the end plate assembly 300 and the end tool 400. However, it is to be understood that the rescue strut 10 could be configured to have different minimum and maximum lengths, by modifying the lengths of the inner support tube 204 and extension tube 206, the heights of the end plate assembly 300 and the end tool 400, and as stated before, the lengths of the oil reservoir tube 140, the cylinder tube 150, and the cylinder rod 160.

In the embodiment shown, the first end 204 a of the inner support tube 204 is configured to receive a push block 210. As can be seen most easily at FIGS. 21 and 22, the push block 210 has a first end 210 a that is received into the interior volume 204 c of the inner support tube 204. The push block 210 is also provided with a shoulder 210 c to engage with the first end of 204 a of the inner support tube 204. As shown, the push block 210 is machined from aluminum and secured to the inner support tube 204 with an adhesive, such as an epoxy. However, other materials and attachment means may be used. At a second end 210 b of the push block 210, a recess 210 c is provided. Recess 210 c is configured to receive the second end 162 b of the cylinder rod 162. As shown, recess 210 c has an internal diameter and a tapered bottom surface 210 e that general match that of the cylinder rod second end 162 b. Accordingly, as the pump assembly 100 extends the cylinder rod 162, the cylinder rod 162 exerts an extending force on the push block 210, which in turn acts to extend the inner support tube 204.

As shown, the push block 210 is also provided with a recess 210 e configure to receive and retain a wear ring 212. In the embodiment shown, the wear ring 212 is formed from a plastic material. However, other materials may be used. The wear ring 212 allows for the inner support tube 204 to easily slide within the outer support tube 202 by providing a low friction interface against the inner support tube 204.

The extension tube assembly 200 is also shown as being configured with a handle tube 220 that is attached to the outer support tube 202 by plates 222. As shown, handle tube 220 is aluminum and secured to the plates 222 with set screws 228 while plates 222 are aluminum and secured to the outer support tube 202 by welds. However, other materials and attachment means may be utilized. The handle tube 220 provides a handle for carrying the rescue strut 10. It is noted that a wide clearance is provided between the handle tube 200 and the outer support tube 202 to allow for a user wearing gloves to easily grasp and carry the rescue strut 10. As shown, a clearance of about 1¼ inch is provided. The handle tube 220 may also be provided with end caps 220 a, 220 b. In one embodiment, a welded end cap 220 b is provided and the pump assembly handle 108 can be easily stored inside the handle tube 220 when the handle 108 is not in use. In the embodiment shown, the length of the handle tube 220 is less than the length of the handle 108 allowing for easy access to the pump handle. The pump handle 108 may be retained in the tube 220 by means of a plastic retainer or push-in type expandable grommet disposed in the end of the handle tube 220. Such a configuration allows for a sufficient friction fit between the handle 108 and the retainer/grommet to hold the handle 108 securely within the tube 220.

Pivot Plate Assembly

As indicated previously, the rescue strut 10 also includes a pivot plate assembly 300. Pivot plate assembly 300 is for providing a footing or base for the rescue strut 10 such that the rescue strut 10 can be securely placed on the ground, or another surface. As shown, pivot plate assembly 300 has an end plate 302 having a first end 302 a, a second end 302 b, a bottom surface 302 i and a top surface 302 j. The end plate 302 is also provided with a pair of stiffening members 302 g on the top surface 302 j of the end plate 302 and extending between the first and second ends 302 a, 302 b. The stiffening members 302 g increase the structural integrity of the end plate 302 and also provide a mounting location for the pump assembly 100. It is also noted that the end plate 302 slopes in an upward direction at each of the first end 302 a and second end 302 b. This feature allows the end plate 302 to be slid along the ground more easily, when such a motion is desired.

As shown, the end plate 302 and stiffening members 302 g are provided with a number or apertures and/or recesses that sever various purposes. For example, stiffening members include apertures 302 h for receiving a mounting pin 304 such that the hydraulic pump assembly 100 can be rotatably secured to the end plate assembly 300. The mounting pin 304 may be secured by a corresponding keeper or nut 306. It is noted that apertures 302 h are offset from the center of the end plate 302 such that, when the pump assembly 100 and extension tube assembly 200 are disposed at an angle, the resulting force exerted onto the end plate 302 is directed more towards the middle of the length of the plate 302. This configuration results in additional stability of the end plate 302 against the ground, and reduces the potential for the front end of the end plate 302 to rise from the ground during a lifting operation.

The stiffening members 302 g are each also shown as including a slot 302 c for receiving a cable, strap, rope, chain, or similar tether that can be used fix the position of the end plate assembly 300 by additionally securing the strap or chain to another hydraulic or adjustable rescue strut, to a fixed object such as a ground stake or tree trunk, or to the secured object such as a vehicle. The end plate 302 is also shown as having apertures 302 d that can also be used to fix the position of the end plate 302 through the use of stakes driven through the apertures 302 d. Apertures 302 e and 302 f in the end plate 302 can also be used to accept cables, straps, ropes, chains, or similar tethers.

End Tools

As indicated previously, the rescue strut 10 also includes a first end tool 400. The first end tool 400 is for engaging the object being supported, raised, and/or secured by the rescue strut 10. By way of non-limiting example, the object being supported can be a vehicle or a part of a building structure. As best seen at FIGS. 25 to 27, the first end tool 400 includes an insert portion 402 and a tool portion 404.

The insert portion 402 is for inserting and securing the first end tool 400 into the second end 206 b of the extension tube 206. The insert portion 402 has a first end 402 a and a second end 402 b. The insert portion 402 is also shown as having recesses 402 c between the first and second ends 402 a, 402 b configured to receive elastic members 402 d. As shown, elastic members 402 d are O-rings. The recesses 402 c and elastic members 402 d are configured to frictionally engage with the interior wall of the extension tube 206 such that the end tool 400, when inserted, will be retained in the extension tube 206. However, the configuration also allows for relatively easy removal of the first end tool 400 without requiring the use of tools or excessive force. The insert portion 402 is also provided with a shoulder 402 e configure to engage with the second end 206 b of the extension tube 206 such that the first end tool 400 can transmit the force exerted by the extension tube 206 to the object being supported by the end tool 400. It is also noted that, where the extension tube 206 is not used, the first end tool 400 may be configured to be installed directly onto the inner support tube 204 where the inner support tube 204 is configured to extend beyond the outer support tube 202.

As shown, the tool portion 404 of the first end tool 400 is provided with a first end 404 a and a second end 404 b, between which a variety of structures are provided to aid in engaging the object to be supported by the rescue strut 10. In one aspect, the tool portion 404 is tapered to form a sloped face 404 e and a leading edge 404 f at the first end 404 a, and is also provided with a notch 404 d. The sloped face 404 e also has a curved recess 404 g. A sharpened steel pin 404 d is also provided on tool portion 404 at the location of the sloped face 404 e and is disposed at about a right angle to the sloped face 404 e. Taken together, these features provide a structure that can be used to engage a wide variety of surfaces and structures when supporting an object with the first end tool 400.

Referring to FIGS. 28 and 29, a second end tool 500 is shown. The second end tool 500 is configured to be engaged with the cylinder rod 162 when the pump assembly 1000 is not connected to the extension tube assembly 200. As stated previously, the pump assembly 100 may be used by itself in certain applications, such as a dash-roll operation. To aid in such applications, second end tool 500 may be installed onto the second end 162 b of the cylinder rod 162. As shown, second end tool 500 has a main body 502 with a tool end 504 and a recessed portion 506. The tool end 504 is provided with a textured surface to aid in engaging surfaces against which the second end tool 504 is applied. Similar to the configuration of the push block 210, the recessed portion 506 of the second end tool has an internal diameter that is about the same diameter as that of the cylinder rod 162, and is also provided with a tapered bottom portion 506 a to match the tapered surface of the end of the cylinder rod 162.

It is noted that although the first end tool 400 is configured for attachment to the extension tube 206 and the second end tool 500 is configured for attachment to the cylinder rod 162, each of the tools 400, 500 could be configured for attachment to one or both of the tube 206 and rod 162. For example, the first end tool 400 could be provided with a recess similar to that provided for the second end tool 500 such that it could receive the second end 162 b of the cylinder rod 162.

The various embodiments described above are provided by way of illustration only and should not be construed to limit the claims attached hereto. Those skilled in the art will readily recognize various modifications and changes that may be made without following the example embodiments and applications illustrated and described herein, and without departing from the true spirit and scope of the disclosure. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A manual rescue tool comprising: (a) a hydraulic pump assembly comprising: i. a manual hydraulic pump; ii. a hydraulic manifold block in fluid communication with the hydraulic pump; iii. a cylinder tube mounted to the hydraulic manifold block, the cylinder tube defining an interior volume that is in fluid communication with an outlet side of the manual hydraulic pump; iv. an oil reservoir tube mounted to the hydraulic manifold block, the oil reservoir tube and the cylinder tube defining an oil reservoir in fluid communication with an inlet side of the manual hydraulic pump; v. a cylinder rod having a first end and a second end, the first end having a piston slidable within the cylinder tube; and (b) an extension tube assembly comprising: i. an outer support tube mounted to the pump assembly hydraulic manifold block; ii. an inner support tube slidably received within the outer support tube, the inner support tube being operably connected to the second end of the cylinder rod; (c) a first end tool operably connected to the inner support tube of the extension tube assembly.
 2. The manual rescue tool of claim 1, wherein the extension tube assembly further comprises an extension tube connected to the inner support tube and the first end tool, the extension tube being slidable within the inner support tube.
 3. The manual rescue tool of claim 2, wherein the extension tube is adjustably connected to the inner support tube by a mounting pin.
 4. The manual rescue tool of claim 3, wherein the extension tube is provided with a plurality of openings configured to align with at least one opening on the inner support tube and wherein the relative position between the extension tube and the inner support tube is fixed by the mounting pin.
 5. The manual rescue tool of claim 1, wherein the outer support tube is removably connected to the pump assembly hydraulic manifold block.
 6. The manual rescue tool of claim 5, wherein the outer support tube is connected to the manifold block by a connection pin.
 7. The manual rescue tool of claim 1, further comprising an end plate assembly rotatably mounted to the pump assembly hydraulic manifold block.
 8. The manual rescue tool of claim 7, wherein the end plate assembly is connected to the pump assembly hydraulic manifold block by a removable pin.
 9. The manual rescue tool of claim 1, further comprising a push block mounted to the inner support tube, the push block being in direct connection with the second end of the cylinder rod.
 10. The manual rescue tool of claim 9, wherein the push block includes a wear ring configured for slidable engagement with the outer support tube.
 11. A hydraulic pump assembly comprising: (a) a manual hydraulic pump; (b) a hydraulic manifold block in fluid communication with the manual hydraulic pump; (c) a cylinder tube mounted to the hydraulic manifold block, the cylinder tube defining an interior volume that is in fluid communication with an outlet side of the manual hydraulic pump; (d) an oil reservoir tube mounted to the hydraulic manifold block, the oil reservoir tube and the cylinder tube defining an oil reservoir in fluid communication with an inlet side of the manual hydraulic pump; and (e) a cylinder rod having a first end and a second end, the first end having a piston slidable within the cylinder tube; (f) wherein the cylinder tube has a bypass feature configured to allow hydraulic fluid to flow from the interior volume of the cylinder tube into the oil reservoir when the piston is moved within the cylinder tube beyond the bypass feature.
 12. The hydraulic pump assembly of claim 11, wherein the oil reservoir tube is secured to the hydraulic manifold block by an end cap wherein the end cap is secured to the cylinder tube
 13. The hydraulic pump assembly of claim 12, wherein the end cap additionally defines the oil reservoir.
 14. The hydraulic pump assembly of claim 12, wherein the end cap has a shaft wiper member.
 15. The hydraulic pump assembly of claim 11, wherein the bypass feature includes one or more openings extending through a sidewall of the cylinder tube.
 16. The hydraulic pump assembly of claim 15, wherein the bypass includes a circumferential groove in the cylinder tube sidewall at the location of the one or more openings.
 17. The hydraulic pump assembly of claim 16, wherein the bypass feature includes ring seal mounted within the groove.
 18. The hydraulic pump assembly of claim 17, wherein the ring seal provides a seal against the one or more openings when fluid pressure in the interior volume of the cylinder tube is negative or below a first fluid pressure and expands to allow fluid flow through the one or more openings when fluid pressure in the interior volume of the cylinder is at or above the first fluid pressure. 